How To Keep Your Footsteps Firm

Movement in the far corner of the back yard caught my eye. I stopped washing dishes and leaned closer to the window for another look. What was that? Wayyyy too big to be a possum. And thankfully too small to be a bear. The color and size reminded me of our next-door dog Moe. Had Moe jumped the fence again?

Then realization dawned. The first deer I’d ever seen in our yard had curled up in the shade of a tree and made itself completely at home. Since our yard is completely fenced in, I couldn’t figure out how the deer managed to come inside. Should I open the gate and try to coax it out? As soon as I opened the back door, I had my answer. The deer leaped over the fence, a fence as tall as the deer itself. No running head start, just one effortless movement. What an amazing display of beauty in motion!

Oh, to possess such grace. I don’t know if it’s an age thing or I’m naturally a klutz, but I find myself tripping over my own two feet just walking on level ground. Unfortunately, I also have a knack for tripping over more than just the physical realm. Anxiety, frustration, or pride can send me down a slippery slope. Before I know it, I’m stumbling ahead of God, trying to make things turn out the way I think is best. When that doesn’t work, I find myself sliding into the mire of doubt and despair. During those times, I need help getting my feet back under me. How about you?

In Psalm 119:133, the psalmist prays: “Establish my footsteps in Your word, And do not let any iniquity have dominion over me.” When we settle ourselves in God’s word, we are reoriented to His truth, His character, and His love for us. We can step out in faith instead of frustration, knowing our loving Father is in control of every detail of our lives. We can trust Him to give us victory over temptations that try to trip us.

Listen to the beautiful promise of Habakkuk 3:19: “The sovereign LORD is my source of strength. He gives me the agility of a deer; he enables me to negotiate the rugged terrain” (NET). When we depend on God, He will make us as sure-footed as the deer in my back yard. May our steps always hold fast to His paths (Psalm 17:5).

Now it’s your turn! I’d love to hear your comments! And I have a prayer request for you …

My first devotional, You Are Not Alone: 40 Devotions Embracing God’s Nearness, will be released September 29, 2026! Please pray God will use the things He has taught me to bring others closer to Himself. I’ve included a little about the book under the cover.

You take care of everyone around you. You meet the needs of your kids, husband, aging parents. Your calendar is marked with church meetings, a weekly Bible study (wait, is it your turn to lead?), helping the women’s committee cook meals for shut-ins, and feeding the neighbors’ cats while they’re away. You love to serve but you’re doing everything in your own strength. And your strength is running out.

Over these next forty days, take time to rest in God’s presence. Let Him remind you He is your strength, refuge, and comforter. That He hears you. Gives second chances. Fights for you. Bears your burdens. As you read each devotion, you’ll find a true story, Scriptures, and life applications. Each devotion closes with ways to remember, refresh, renew, and respond to the truth of God’s Word.  

Discover what happens when you let God take care of you. You are not alone. Embrace His nearness.